Turning Point USA CEO Erika Kirk faced an awkward moment after a heckler confronted her during the opening minutes of her speech at a women’s leadership Summit. While she was addressing the audience, the heckler got up and shouted that she “protects pe–philes.” The moment that created quite a stir on the internet also gave podcaster Candace Owens an opportunity to take shots at Kirk.

According to the Irish Star, during an event on Friday, June 5, the disruption occurred around the 11-minute mark of her 17-minute speech. The heckler repeatedly yelled, alleging, “Erika Kirk protects pe–philes.” Though the woman was reportedly removed by security and met with boos from the audience, Kirk ensured to give it back to the heckler with a strong response.

“It’s important to remember happiness comes and goes, and I pray that you find it,” she said with a smile while gaining support from Summit attendees as well, who hooted and gave a standing ovation in her support.

Nevertheless, popular podcaster Candace Owens, who has been critical of Kirk’s actions ever since Charlie Kirk’s demise, had a field day enjoying the moment. She reposted the viral moment on her social media and stated that she couldn’t wait to discuss it on her Monday podcast. She wrote, “Turning Point chops, screws and premieres Charlie-GPT. Erika gets heckled and called a supporter of pe–philes.”

“Yeah, it’s time for me to get back on air. Monday can’t come fast enough!” she further added.

Owens’ reaction received a mixed response from internet users, with many expressing their excitement about the podcaster’s commentary on the incident while others called her out for targeting Kirk. One user wrote, “Of course you would do this. Erika gets heckled by one idiot. Then gets a standing ovation. Cope harder”

“You’ve created a freak show. Erika is continuing Charlie’s legacy beautifully and spending the weekend inspiring women. You spend your time spreading hate and lies. People like you can make it with numbers and money, but inwards you’ll always be empty,” the user added, expressing strong support for Erika.

Another user took a sarcastic jab referencing Owens’ words, stating, “Trust me guys, I know the truth. I’m TOTALLY not using Erika for clicks and cash. I just really want justice for my fRiEnD,” and one user slammed her, stating, “Using her for views. You’re a loser, Candace.”

While a third user expressed excitement about Owens ’ commentary, stating, “I have been waiting for you to comment!! And by “waiting,” I mean “checking your page entirely too much for a new post.” Cannot WAIT for next week’s episodes. Hurry. I mean, enjoy your time away. But also, hurry.”

Another chimed in, “I’m okay if you drop a video before then. I don’t want to stress you out by having you wait.”

Tensions between Erika Kirk and Candace Owens grew following Charlie Kirk’s assassination during a TPUSA event at Utah Valley University on September 10, 2025, especially after the podcaster encouraged various claims and conspiracy theories surrounding his death.